Long Plain First Nation to lead Sio Silica review
Long Plain First Nation has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Sio Silica Corporation to lead an Indigenous environmental review of the company’s proposed silica extraction project in southeastern Manitoba.
The review, focused on the SiMBA Silica Project, will operate independently of other regulatory and public assessments. Long Plain will oversee the process to ensure Indigenous knowledge, values, and environmental stewardship are central to how the project’s potential impacts are examined.
“This process allows us to determine whether the project aligns with our environmental, cultural, and community values,” said Chief David Meeches of Long Plain First Nation. “Our Nation will always make decisions that protect our lands, waters, and the well-being of future generations.”
The agreement outlines a framework for an Indigenous-controlled due diligence process rather than an endorsement of the proposed project. Long Plain will coordinate technical reviews, environmental analysis, and community engagement across interested Treaty One Nations. The Nation retains full discretion to suspend or end its participation at any stage if the review raises concerns or if Sio Silica fails to meet standards of transparency and accountability.
Under the MOU, the First Nation will act as lead Nation, guiding an independent review that combines Western scientific methods with traditional ecological knowledge. Once the work is complete, Long Plain plans to release a report outlining findings and recommendations for Treaty One Nations and Manitoba residents.
Carla Devlin, president of Sio Silica, said the company welcomes Long Plain’s leadership in the process. “We respect the leadership and the strong commitment Long Plain First Nation has to protecting the land and water,” Devlin said. “That perspective is vital to a responsible and transparent review process.”
Long Plain’s initiative marks a significant move toward Indigenous-led environmental governance within Treaty One Territory. The First Nation has emphasized that its review will be transparent, scientifically grounded, and culturally informed. The agreement also prevents Sio Silica or any external party from using Long Plain’s participation for promotional purposes.
“This agreement represents the kind of independent, accountable process that should guide all major projects on Indigenous lands,” Chief Meeches said. “We have a responsibility to ensure decisions are made with respect for our people, our environment, and future generations.”
The memorandum builds on Long Plain’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Indigenous oversight of resource development and to assert Treaty rights in environmental decision-making. The First Nation said the outcome of the review will help determine whether the proposed silica project can proceed in a way that meets its environmental and cultural standards.
The environmental review process is expected to begin in the coming months.